Beartree Recreation Area

Welcome, fellow Virginians, to Beartree Recreation Area, a truly remarkable destination nestled within the picturesque Jefferson National Forest near Damascus. If you're seeking an outdoor escape that offers a diverse range of activities, stunning natural beauty, and a welcoming environment for all ages, then Beartree is a place you simply must explore. This isn't just a campground; it's a comprehensive recreational hub designed to help you connect with the wild heart of our state.

Beartree Recreation Area is celebrated for its serene lake, extensive trails, and the peaceful atmosphere it cultivates. Imagine spending your days hiking a scenic loop around a "beautiful recreational area," casting a line in a lake "stocked with trout," or letting your "toddler had a blast walking over bridges and playing on the beach." As one visitor aptly described it, "A beautiful recreational area for hiking and a picnic." This sentiment highlights the multifaceted appeal of Beartree, where every member of the family can find something to love.

While the area has faced recent challenges, including "hurricane damage" and ongoing "maintenance in 2024 for the beach area and bathrooms," its inherent beauty and recreational value remain undiminished. Even with temporary adjustments like using "port-a-johns," the core experience of enjoying nature prevails. For a weekend camping trip, a day of fishing, or a family outing filled with exploration, Beartree Recreation Area offers a unique blend of adventure and tranquility right here in Virginia.

Beartree Recreation Area is strategically located at 20993 Beartree Gap Rd, Damascus, VA 24236, USA. This address places it squarely within the vast and beautiful Jefferson National Forest in Southwest Virginia. The area is renowned for its natural splendor, mountainous terrain, and extensive network of trails, making Beartree a prime hub for outdoor activities.

For Virginians traveling to Beartree, accessibility typically involves using major interstate highways, primarily I-81. If you're coming from the larger population centers in Virginia (e.g., Roanoke, Charlottesville), you would generally take I-81 South. A common approach involves exiting at Marion (Exit 19) or Abingdon (Exit 19) and then following well-maintained state routes like US-58 or VA-16 that lead towards Damascus. From Damascus, Beartree Gap Road is a local forest road that provides direct access to the recreation area. While the drive leads you into a more remote, mountainous setting, the roads are generally suitable for most vehicles, including those towing campers or RVs.

The "Excellent location" is a key highlight, offering immediate access to a diverse range of recreational opportunities. At the heart of the area is Beartree Lake, with a scenic "loop trail around the lake" that provides "spectacular views." This trail is notably "stroller friendly" for part of its length (if starting from a specific trailhead), making it accessible for families with young children. Beyond the lake loop, the area offers "great hiking trails" and "biking trails." For adventure seekers, "motorcycle off road trails by FR90" are also accessible, catering to a wide array of outdoor interests.

Despite its immersive natural setting, Beartree Recreation Area is also conveniently close to the charming town of Damascus, famously known as "Trail Town, USA." This proximity means campers and day visitors can easily access additional amenities like bike rentals for the Virginia Creeper Trail, local shops, and dining options, balancing wilderness immersion with practical conveniences. This strategic blend of deep forest experience and nearby town access makes Beartree Recreation Area an exceptionally well-located and accessible destination for Virginians seeking comprehensive outdoor recreation.

Beartree Recreation Area, managed by the U.S. Forest Service, offers a comprehensive set of services and amenities designed to support a wide range of outdoor activities for both campers and day-use visitors.

• Camping Sites: The area provides "plenty of camping sites" for overnight stays. These sites are generally "very secluded," offering privacy for campers.

• Bathrooms: Equipped with clean "bathrooms," visitors have access to convenient and well-maintained restroom facilities. (Note: Due to recent hurricane damage and ongoing maintenance, temporary facilities like "port-a-johns" may be in use, as mentioned in reviews.)

• Showers: "Showers" are available, providing a comfortable way for campers to clean up after a day of hiking or activities. (Similar to bathrooms, availability might be affected by maintenance or damage.)

• RV Waste Water Dump: For RV campers, an "rv waste water dump" station is provided, a crucial service for managing waste during longer stays.

• Kids Playground: The area features a "kids playground," ensuring entertainment and a safe space for younger visitors to play.

• Hiking Trails: A network of "great hiking trails" is accessible directly from the recreation area, including a "loop trail around the lake."

• Biking Trails: Designated "biking trails" are available, catering to cyclists of various skill levels.

• Motorcycle Off-Road Trails: For off-road enthusiasts, "motorcycle off road trails by FR90" (Forest Road 90) are accessible, offering a specific type of motorized recreation.

• Beach Area: A "beach to chill on" is a unique feature, providing a sandy area for relaxation and play by the lake. (Note: As of 2024/2025, this area may be undergoing maintenance or recovering from damage.)

• Stocked Lake for Fishing: Beartree Lake is "stocked with trout," providing excellent fishing opportunities for anglers.

• Picnic Areas: Beyond camping, the area is noted as a "beautiful recreational area for hiking and a picnic," indicating designated spots for day-use picnicking.

Visitors should be aware of ongoing maintenance or damage recovery efforts that might temporarily affect the availability or condition of some services, and it's always advisable to check current conditions before visiting.

• Beautiful Beartree Lake: The central attraction is the stunning Beartree Lake, offering "spectacular views across the lake." It's perfect for scenic walks, photography, and provides a peaceful backdrop for relaxation.

• Stocked Trout Fishing: The lake is "stocked with trout," making it a prime destination for anglers. Reviewers note successful fishing experiences, with one person having "quite the trout haul!"

• Diverse Trail System: Beartree offers "great hiking trails" and "biking trails," including a popular "loop trail around the lake." Additionally, "motorcycle off road trails by FR90" cater to a wide range of outdoor adventurers.

• Family-Friendly Environment: With "playgrounds for the kids" and a "beach to chill on," the area is highly recommended for families. The "stroller friendly" portion of the lake trail ensures accessibility for parents with toddlers.

• Secluded Campsites: Despite offering "plenty of camping sites," they are described as "very secluded," ensuring privacy and a quiet atmosphere for campers.

• Unique Beach Area: The presence of a "BEACH to chill on" is a distinctive feature, providing a rare opportunity for sandy shoreline relaxation by a mountain lake.

• Tranquil & Relaxing Atmosphere: Visitors consistently highlight the "quietness is extremely relaxing," making it an ideal escape for those seeking peace and rejuvenation in nature.

• Scenic Beauty: The area is described as a "beautiful recreational area," particularly noting the "richness and contrast" of fall colors, offering gorgeous sights year-round.

• Comprehensive Amenities (when fully operational): The availability of bathrooms, showers, and an RV waste water dump makes it a well-equipped site for a comfortable camping experience.

As a recreation area and campground managed by the U.S. Forest Service within the Jefferson National Forest, Beartree Recreation Area operates under federal fee structures rather than offering traditional commercial "promotions" or "special offers." Its value is inherent in its extensive recreational opportunities, natural beauty, and well-maintained facilities at a government-regulated price.

However, it's helpful for Virginians to understand the general fee structure and any applicable federal discounts:

• Standard Forest Service Fees: Camping fees are set by the Forest Service. A reviewer noted the price is "$24 a night and up," which, while perhaps considered "a little silly for camping in the woods" by some, is generally competitive for a developed campground with amenities like bathrooms, showers, and playgrounds in a desirable location.

• Interagency Pass Discounts: Holders of certain Interagency Passes (e.g., America the Beautiful – The National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass for seniors, military, or those with permanent disabilities) are often eligible for discounts on camping fees. It is always advisable to inquire about these if you possess such a pass.

• Value of Diverse Activities: The "offer" of Beartree Recreation Area includes the immense value of direct access to a stocked lake for fishing, various hiking and biking trails, and even motorcycle off-road trails. This wide array of activities is included with the camping or day-use fee, providing significant recreational value.

• Day Use Fees: In addition to camping, there might be day-use fees for accessing certain parts of the recreation area, which also contribute to the maintenance and services. These fees can sometimes be covered or discounted by Interagency Passes.

For the most accurate and up-to-date pricing, availability, and to confirm which passes are accepted for discounts on specific fees, Virginians should always refer to the official Recreation.gov website. This is the designated booking platform for federal campgrounds and provides the most current information. Additionally, contacting the local Forest Service office (using the provided phone numbers) can offer clarity on fees and any operational alerts, especially concerning the mentioned maintenance or hurricane damage.

For inquiries, reservations, and more detailed information about Beartree Recreation Area, as it is managed by the U.S. Forest Service within the Jefferson National Forest, please use the following contact details:

Address: 20993 Beartree Gap Rd, Damascus, VA 24236, USA

Phone: (276) 388-3642 (This number likely connects to the local ranger district office responsible for this area.)

Mobile Phone: +1 276-388-3642 (This is the same number, often used for general inquiries.)

For reservations for camping, it is highly recommended to use the official government website: www.recreation.gov. Search for "Beartree Campground" or "Beartree Recreation Area" to check availability and make a booking. This is the primary and most efficient way to reserve sites at this federal campground. The local ranger district office (at the provided phone number) can also assist with general inquiries about the recreation area, current conditions (especially regarding maintenance or hurricane damage), and the availability of specific facilities like the beach or bathrooms.

For us Virginians, Beartree Recreation Area is an outstanding destination that perfectly encapsulates the diverse outdoor experiences our state has to offer. Its multifaceted appeal makes it exceptionally suitable for a wide range of local adventurers, from families to solo nature lovers.

Firstly, its sheer beauty and tranquility are paramount. The "gorgeous" Beartree Lake, with its "spectacular views" and the "quietness is extremely relaxing," provides an immediate sense of escape from everyday stresses. For local families, the "stroller friendly" loop trail around the lake and the "playgrounds for the kids" are invaluable, ensuring that even the youngest members can enjoy the outdoors safely and comfortably. The unique "beach to chill on" offers a rare opportunity for sandy fun by a mountain lake, adding a special touch to your family outing.

Secondly, Beartree caters to a broad spectrum of recreational interests, which is a huge draw for active Virginians. Whether you're into "great hiking trails," "biking trails," or even "motorcycle off road trails," there's an activity to suit your preference. The fact that the lake is "stocked with trout" makes it a prime spot for anglers, offering the chance for a successful catch and a peaceful day by the water. This diversity ensures that every visit can be a new adventure, encouraging repeat trips for locals to explore all that Beartree has to offer.

While the area has experienced some damage and ongoing maintenance, the resilience of nature and the commitment to recovery mean that the core experience remains intact. Even with temporary adjustments like port-a-johns, the fundamental appeal of its location, the lake, and the trails shines through. Its proximity to Damascus, "Trail Town, USA," further enhances its appeal, allowing for easy access to additional amenities and more trail opportunities if desired. Beartree Recreation Area is more than just a campground; it’s a comprehensive outdoor haven that invites Virginians to explore, relax, and create lasting memories in one of our state’s most beautiful natural settings.